Well, here we are! In 60 days the Congressional Medal of Honor Society will hold its annual convention here in Chattanooga. This is hard to believe. This major, national week-long (29 September–4 October) convention is traditionally held in large American cities. Last year it was in San Antonio. The year before it was in New Orleans, but not this year. This year it’s coming to America’s Scenic City, and, yes, the “Birthplace of the Medal of Honor” - Chattanooga, TN. Now you know why it’s coming. This is where it all began for our Nation’s highest award for valor. Rarely does our modest city at a bend in the Tennessee River attract such a national audience.
The Society represents all living Medal of Honor Recipients and, by extension, all of those who have received this stunning Medal since its first awarding in 1863. Right now, there are 61 living Recipients, and they are all invited to this annual convention, along with their families. Thousands of others will participate. The purpose of the convention is to amplify the special characteristics associated with the Medal - courage, commitment, citizenship, integrity, sacrifice, and patriotism - through community education.
The Convention’s capstone event is the “Patriot Awards Gala,” which will be held on Saturday, 4 October 2025, at the Chattanooga Convention Center. More than 1,300 patriots will come together to recognize our living Recipients and to honor four high-profile and nationally recognized individuals for their life’s work in promoting Medal of Honor characteristics.
Emceeing the Gala will be Emmy, Golden Globe, and Tony Award recipient, Mr. Gary Sinise. Overseeing the preparation of the meal for attendees will be world-renowned Chef Robert Irvine. Mr. Sinise will close out the Gala with a performance by his Lt. Dan Band, along with several “surprise” invited guests.
For their national contributions to the ideals associated with the Medal of Honor, the Society will present in-person major awards to former Secretary of Defense and CIA Director Mr. Robert Gates; Fox News Correspondent Mr. Joey Jones; Country Music Star Mr. John Rich; and Philanthropist Ms. Kathleen Rollins.
All wonderful citizens of our community are invited to join in and attend the week’s activities and, as able, help sponsor one of the Convention’s important fundraising events, especially the Gala. A link to explore these opportunities follows:
www.MOHHC.org/Sponsor
Chattanooga is recognized as one of the most patriotic communities in the nation, and this is our chance to showcase what makes Chattanooga truly unique and special. Please help your city and region—the “Birthplace of the Medal of Honor” -honor the Society’s trust and confidence by ensuring their Convention in Chattanooga is a resounding success. This is truly a once in a generation opportunity for us; one that I believe will impact our community for years to come.
To learn more, Chattanooga’s point of contact for the Convention is Mr. Vince Butler, cell # 423-290-1470 and email vbutler@mohhc.org. Thank you.
B.B. Bell
General, U.S. Army (Retired)